张九龄

感遇其二

兰叶春葳蕤， 桂华秋皎洁；

欣欣此生意， 自尔为佳节。

谁知林栖者？ 闻风坐相悦，

草木有本心， 何求美人折？

Five-character-ancient-verse

Zhang Jiuling

ORCHID AND ORANGE I

Tender orchid-leaves in spring

And cinnamon- blossoms bright in autumn

Are as self- contained as life is,

Which conforms them to the seasons.

Yet why will you think that a forest-hermit,

Allured by sweet winds and contented with beauty,

Would no more ask to-be transplanted

THan Would any other natural flower？